Abstract: Since 2010, Japan’s “National Defense Program Guidelines” has gone through three editions of amendment, and its main changes in contents can be reflected in the following aspects: emphasis on the threats from China; emphasis on multidimensional integrated defense upgrading from the defense concept; the strategic layout that combines traditional space including land, sea and air with new fields like space, cyberspace and electromagnetic waves based on the continuation of “one body and two wings” idea; more attention to strengthen the capabilities of SelfDefense Force. On the one hand, Japan’s goal is to achieve its “political power” strategy and meet the demands of domestic interest groups. On the other hand, the pressure exerted by the United States and the changes in global security environment have also forced Japan to make some adjustments. Under the guidance of National Defense Program Guidelines, Japan has adopted a series of measures, such as developing military forces while catering to the US strategy, vigorously rendering the Chinese threat theory, strengthening the “2+2” cooperation mechanism, promoting the constitutional amendment process, and conducting military exercises with other countries frequently, etc. Therefore, while giving full affirmation to the adaptability of Japan’s action, we should also be alert to the real motivation behind Japan’s frequent revision of National Defense Program Guidelines.

Key words: Japan, National Defense Program Guidelines, military strategy, Sino-Japanese relations